Introducing your beloved partner to your favorite film can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor. In my case, the film that held a special place in my heart was Yasujirō Ozu’s masterpiece, “Tokyo Story” (1953). However, my fiancée had reservations about watching black and white films, considering them to be depressing. While visiting our local library we stumbled upon the DVD, and because of my relentless insistence, she finally caved in and decided to see the film together.
This article recounts my journey of persuasion, as I navigated the delicate task of convincing my partner to give “Tokyo Story” a chance. It explores the beauty of Ozu’s filmmaking, the themes and emotions captured within the film, and the transformative power of cinema in bridging gaps between personal preferences.
Discovering the Magic of “Tokyo Story”
“Tokyo Story” is a poignant exploration of family dynamics, generational gaps, and the fleeting nature of time. It follows an aging couple as they journey to Tokyo to visit their grown children, only to discover a sense of disconnection and indifference. The film’s beauty lies in its subtle portrayal of human relationships and the universal themes it addresses.
Understanding the Resistance
To convince my fiancée to watch “Tokyo Story,” it was crucial to empathize with her perspective. Black and white films often carry a reputation for being somber or outdated, which can deter some viewers. By acknowledging her concerns and engaging in open conversations about her preferences, I gained insight into her reservations and found common ground to address them. I told many stories about the director and actors to get her acquainted to them in order to get her more involved in the people behind it, in hopes that it would steer her attention away from the black and white photography. After watching the film, she said that she thought the monochrome film would be more depressing than it was. I deemed this statement a small victory.
Conveying the Emotional Depth
One of the key aspects of “Tokyo Story” is its ability to evoke profound emotions through its simplicity. By sharing my personal connection to the film and discussing the emotional impact it had on me, I hoped to pique my fiancée’s curiosity. I highlighted the film’s universal themes of family, love, and the passage of time, emphasizing the potential for personal reflection and growth. While I love the minimalistic and realistic approach to deep emotional themes, my fiancée wondered why the characters laugh when they’re supposed to cry.
Introducing Ozu’s Unique Filmmaking Style
Yasujirō Ozu’s filmmaking style is distinctive, characterized by his use of static shots, low camera angles, and minimalistic storytelling. I explained to my partner how these stylistic choices enhance the film’s emotional resonance and offer a different perspective on cinematic storytelling. I shared anecdotes about Ozu’s influence on renowned filmmakers and the critical acclaim “Tokyo Story” has garnered over the years. She was shocked to hear that the director never married or had children, and always lived with his mother. When questioning her about the characters, she explained that she understands why Chishu Ryu is my favorite actor, because he is always kind and laughs. She also expressed her admiration for Noriko, portrayed by Setsuko Hara, for being the most respectable character.
Choosing the Right Moment
Timing is crucial when introducing someone to a film that holds personal significance. I waited for a moment when my fiancée was receptive and in a relaxed state of mind. We created a cozy atmosphere, dimmed the lights, made some snacks and refreshments and settled in for a movie night, focusing on creating an immersive experience.
Encouraging Discussion and Reflection
After watching the film together, I encouraged an open dialogue, allowing my fiancée to express her thoughts and emotions. We discussed the characters, their struggles, and the profound impact of the film’s subtle moments. By engaging in a meaningful conversation, we deepened our connection and fostered a greater appreciation for the film. But when I asked her what she felt about the film overall, she said: “It’s alright…”
Conclusion
In the end, my efforts to convince my fiancée to watch “Tokyo Story” proved to be rewarding. Through understanding, open communication, and a shared experience, we were able to bridge the gap between our cinematic preferences. The film’s profound storytelling, emotional depth, and Ozu’s masterful direction allowed my fiancée to see the beauty in black and white cinema beyond her initial reservations. Our journey of persuasion not only brought us closer as a couple but also opened doors to exploring new cinematic territories together. And although this isn’t her style of filmmaking, she took the time solely because the film is so important to me.
“Tokyo Story” served as a catalyst for meaningful conversations, introspection, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of human relationships. It reminded us of the transformative power of cinema and its ability to touch our hearts and broaden our horizons. She opened her soul to the immersive experience of an Ozu/Ryu exposé, and didn’t like it nearly as much as I did. But she took the time and opened her mind, and, in my opinion, that’s what love is about. I am grateful for the cozy and heartfelt film night, and feel blessed with such a wonderful, kind-hearted fiancée. You’re the best!
